He says the Coalition intends to separate Indigenous affairs from the Department of Families, Housing and Community Services.

"We would place Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander affairs inside the cabinet as a stand-alone portfolio - practically to give real focus on the changes that need to be made on the ground for Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders."

Senator Scullion says the Indigenous Affairs portfolio is one of the most important in Parliament.

"And there is just so much work to be done and I think it is a role that whoever the minister is they will have to engage at a very local and specific level."

Northern Territory Labor Senator Trish Crossin says it is silly for the Opposition to hold off announcing its Indigenous affairs policy because Aboriginal people in remote communities have already started voting.

"Putting out a statement after they vote is meaningless," she said.

"Saying nothing up at all from the Liberal Party up to this day shows I think a lack of concern and a lack of genuine engagement with Indigenous people and the policies you would want for them."